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According to NBI Director Virgilio Mendez, they have identified the individuals who uploaded the video showing the coldblooded killing of PO2 Joseph Sagonoy. The cellphone video was purportedly taken by Muslim rebels during the Jan. 25, 2014 encounter between the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebel group. The video shows a wounded Sagonoy who is shot twice in the head at close range ...

BACOLOD CITY, March 2 — The House committee on tourism approved the setting up of Department of Tourism (DOT) office for Negros Occidental. “We’re getting a DOT in Negros Occidental,” this was confirmed by Bacolod City Rep. Evelio Leonardia after the committee hearing that deliberated House Bill 4702 which he filed. The bill seeks to create a Negros Island Tourism Office that will coordinate the tourism efforts of the two provinces in the island. After due deliberation, the committee on tourism approved a Negros Occidental office instead of an island-wide one,…

MANILA -- The Philippine government has ordered the suspension of all exploration at an offshore oil and gas field because of an ongoing territorial dispute with China, a Filipino-British company said.

What on earth happened to these two women—supposedly handpicked by the president himself to argue on behalf of the Philippine government in peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front—who now seem to be mouthpieces for the Moros? Have Secretary Teresita Deles, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process and Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, chair of the negotiating panel become mesmerized by the tough "macho" image the rebels project? Or have they been around these terrorists far too long that they're experiencing a "Stockholm-syndrome" like phenomenon? ...

MANILA -- The Philippine government has ordered the suspension of all exploration at an offshore oil and gas field because of an ongoing territorial dispute with China, a Filipino-British company said.

JAKARTA, Indonesia -- Indonesia is nearly ready to execute by firing squad nine foreigners condemned for drug smuggling as diplomatic squabbles persist over the executions. Attorney General Muhammad Prasetyo said Tuesday the preparations at the execution site are complete. Australians Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran and two other foreigner convicts will be transferred to Nusakambangan prison this week. Five other foreigners and an Indonesian are already in the prison where all 10 will be executed simultaneously in pairs.

DESPITE the special powers to be granted by Congress to President Benigno Aquino III, power interruption could still be experienced in Luzon this summer, a Palace official admitted Tuesday. Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., however, said that any rotating brownouts would be minimal. "Kaya sa pangkalahatan makikita naman natin, ayon doon sa latest projection ng DOE (Department of Energy), nakikita nilang minimal ‘yung maaaring maging shortage o power supply deficiency," he said.

SOME Catholic bishops said Tuesday it is just right for President Benigno Aquino III to apologize for the botched police operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao last January 25. Marbel Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez said saying sorry is a show of humility. “Humility is a sign of true leadership. He should accept responsibility. Genuine leaders never pass the buck. Humility is truth. A Christian virtue. Let us pray for PNoy (Aquino),” he said.

What on earth happened to these two women—supposedly handpicked by the president himself to argue on behalf of the Philippine government in peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front—who now seem to be mouthpieces for the Moros? Have Secretary Teresita Deles, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process and Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, chair of the negotiating panel become mesmerized by the tough "macho" image the rebels project? Or have they been around these terrorists far too long that they're experiencing a "Stockholm-syndrome" like phenomenon? ...

According to NBI Director Virgilio Mendez, they have identified the individuals who uploaded the video showing the coldblooded killing of PO2 Joseph Sagonoy. The cellphone video was purportedly taken by Muslim rebels during the Jan. 25, 2014 encounter between the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebel group. The video shows a wounded Sagonoy who is shot twice in the head at close range ...

The 44 members of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (SAF) who were brutally killed in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on January 25, 2015 are heroes twice over: first, they paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country; second, they exposed for all to see, the dangers the country will face if the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is passed ...

With each passing day, it is becoming increasingly clear that the idea of a Bangsamoro is a bad idea. Just as the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) spearheaded by former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was a bad idea (and declared unconstitutional in 2008 by the Supreme Court). Just as the failed Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) during the 1990s was a bad idea ...

What happened in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on January 25 is a "game changer"—make no mistake about it. Reality as we saw it before this event is not the reality we see now...everything is different; everything has "changed. When the Philippine National Police's (PNP) elite team known as the Special Action Force or SAF set out to arrest Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan, it had actionable intelligence that the Malaysian fugitive was hiding in the town of Mamasapano. Marwan, an expert bomb maker, is a core member of the terrorist group Jemaah Islamiyah. He also has a USD 5 million bounty on his…

International Business Times UK10000 families homeless as 12-hour fire hit Philippine capitalThe Borneo PostMANILA: More than 10,000 families were displaced after a 12-hour fire destroyed 5,000 houses in Metro Manila, capital city of the Philippines, Xinhua News reported local authorities as saying on Tuesday. The fire broke out at the Parola Compound in Image of Asia: Fire burns more than 1000 homes in ManilaNewser10000 Families Homeless In 12-hour Fire In Philippine CapitalBernamaPhilippines: Thousands homeless after Manila predawn fireInternational Business Times UKNews24 -Saudi Press…

RapplerPhilippines Suspends Oil, Gas Exploration in Disputed WatersABC NewsThe Philippine government has ordered the suspension of all exploration at an offshore oil and gas field because of an ongoing territorial dispute with China, a Filipino-British company said. Oil and gas exploration company Forum Energy Plc. said the ...Oil firm stops drilling in West Philippine SeaRapplerPhilippines suspends oil, gas exploration in disputed waters with ChinaFuelFix (blog)Philippines halts exploration in 'disputed' sea: ContractorJakarta Postall 67 news articles »

Philippines' central bankers say at least 7 Asian banks plan market entry ReutersAn executive at Taiwan's Cathay United Bank, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the lender had informed the BSP that it wants to upgrade its Philippine representative office into a branch. Meanwhile Taiwan Cooperative Bank is working on plans to ...and more »

Philippine StarMalta prince eyes cooperation agreement with PhilippinesPhilippine StarMANILA, Philippines - After providing assistance to the victims of Syper Typhoon "Yolanda" in 2013, the Sovereign Military Order of Malta wants to strengthen its cooperation with the Philippines. Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order Aquino thanks Order of Malta for shelter of 'Yolanda' survivorsInquirer.netall 15 news articles »

POLICE filed charges yesterday afternoon against the public high school teacher who allegedly molested an 11-year-old pupil, a participant in the Central Visayas Regional Athletics Association competitions in Balamban. Two counts of violating Republic Act 7610, which punishes the exploitation of children, were filed against Floyd before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor yesterday afternoon, said PO3 Diana Molejon of the Women and Children's Protection Desk in the Asturias Police Station.

THE Central Negros Electric Cooperative Board of Directors passed a resolution extending the delivery date of contracted power supply of Energreen Power Development and Management Inc.... THE much talked about unification between the United Negros Alliance and the Love Negros team will be complicated, said former Governor Rafael Coscolluella.

The Philippines has suspended operations at a South China Sea natural gas project because it is also claimed by China and the dispute is before a UN tribunal, its contractor said Tuesday. UK-listed Forum Energy said the Philippine energy department's order halted its exploration activities at the Reed Bank section of the sea, as of December 15 last year.

MANILA Senate President Franklin Drilon believes deliberation on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law can push through without the Moro Islamic Liberation Front surrendering its fighters involved in the Mamasapano clash. Speaking to dzMM, Drilon said he supports the call for justice for the slain 44 Special Action Force troopers in the January 25 Mamasapano clash, but the passage of the law must not be delayed.

Accompanied by some teachers, the boy went to Asturias Police Station on Saturday to report the alleged sexual abuse he suffered at the hands of a Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association event coach from the Talisay City division. The victim said, on the evening of February 26, the teacher allegedly touched his privates inside one of the classrooms in Asturias Central School, one of the billeting quarters for CVIRAA athletes.

MANILA, March 2 — Several flights were cancelled Monday due to bad weather and aircraft situations, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) said in an advisory. According to DOTC via Twitter, among flights cancelled due to bad weather include 2P-2079 (Manila-Catarman), and 2P-2080 (Catarman-Manila). Both flights belong to PAL Express. State-run weather bureau PAGASA earlier forecasted Visayas (where Catarman is located), eastern Mindanao and Southern Luzon to experience moderate to strong winds coming from the northeast. PAGASA meanwhile noted that Metro Manila and…

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, March 2 — The Tree Top Adventure theme park has announced the upgrading of its facility in the Subic Freeport, including the introduction of the first motorized zipline course in Asia. Tree Top Adventure CEO Ma. Camille Montejo said that their team-building facility at the Jungle Environment Survival Training (JEST) Camp here contains facilities for two slow-paced and four fast-paced activities. These include the so-called “Superman Ride,” which is the only motorized zipline course in Asia. “If you want to see the forest and appreciate nature from…

By Danny O. Calleja LIGAO CITY, March 2 (PNA) –The shades of healthily growing forest and fruit-bearing trees on the steep slope of Kawa-Kawa Hill here give thousands of people from all walks of life, who struggle their way to its summit during the weekend, a perfect cover from the scorching heat of the noontime sun. The mass trek over the winding, narrow concrete walkway was for the solemn celebration of the Way of the Cross, a Lenten event that has made the dramatically unique peak standing 236-meter above the sea level not just a stunning ecotourism destination but a religious…

BEIJING, March 2 — North Korea is set to reopen its border for tourism after implementing a strict quarantine against Ebola for more than four months, a travel agency said Monday. "Pyongyang (authorities) have told us to expect confirmation that tourism will reopen soon," said Beijing-based Koryo Tours. "The National Tourism Administration in Pyongyang contacted us this morning to let us know that there is some movement in the border policy, and we should expect confirmation later today," said the firm, which has been specializing in tours to North Korea for more…

BACOLOD CITY, March 2 — The House committee on tourism approved the setting up of Department of Tourism (DOT) office for Negros Occidental. “We’re getting a DOT in Negros Occidental,” this was confirmed by Bacolod City Rep. Evelio Leonardia after the committee hearing that deliberated House Bill 4702 which he filed. The bill seeks to create a Negros Island Tourism Office that will coordinate the tourism efforts of the two provinces in the island. After due deliberation, the committee on tourism approved a Negros Occidental office instead of an island-wide one,…

A Vietnamese national has been extradited to the United States from Britain after being charged with traveling to Yemen to receive training at an Al-Qaeda camp, US authorities said Tuesday. Minh Quang Pham, 32, will appear in federal court in New York on Thursday to answer charges of providing support and receiving training from Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), a statement said. US Attorney Preet Bharara said Pham had traveled "surreptitiously" to Yemen from Britain in late 2010 and spent six months in the country receiving instruction from Al-Qaeda operatives.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is sending President Barack Obama a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security through the end of the budget year, without overturning the president's immigration policies.

Another month has passed and that means a new roundup of gadget reviews which includes the Cherry Mobile Cosmos One Plus, MyPhone Uno, MSI GS70 2QE Stealth Gaming Notebook, and the HTC Desire Eye to name a few. So before you start enjoying the summer season, take a look at our Gadget Reviews Roundup for February 2015. Full Review Cherry Mobile Cosmos One Plus Cherry Mobile definitely has a superphone right here with the Cosmos One Plus. The high-end hardware configuration is evident from the top performance in our benchmark tests. It comes with dual-LTE connectivity which is rare and first…

We take you back to the news and original articles that we ran last month. Here are our top tech stories in February 2015. A lot of events sure happened in the local tech scene last month. We saw the launch of a network’s Digital Television broadcast, a new video streaming service entering the country through one telecom provider, and the entrance of Google’s Android One Program in the country through its partner brands: Cherry Mobile One and MyPhone Uno. Here are our top stories, in descending order. 10. Five Earphones under Php500 For the music-loving people, an audio…

Along with the new smartphones and tablets, Lenovo has also unveiled its first portable standalone projector that works with compatible Miracast or DLNA-enabled Android, Windows 8.1 or iOS devices – the Pocket Projector. The Lenovo Pocket Projector features a portable design yet powerful enough to project a high-contrast display of up to 110 inches. Lenovo Pocket Projector specs: up to 110-inch (854 x 480) display 50 lumens microSD card support up to 32GB microUSB port 2 x speakers, 3.5mm audio jack DLNA and Miracast capability up to 2.5 hours battery life 104 x 25 x 100mm 170g Platinum…

ONLY by coincidence are reports of a brewing coup plot circulating on the eve of the 29th anniversary of the EDSA 1 People Power uprising. The usual suspects behind coup attempts may find it convenient to link their conspiracy to the overthrow of the Marcos regime in 1986, but they would be unduly stretching the meaning of their clandestine enterprise if they did so. A coup is the exact opposite of what happened in 1986. A coup d’etat (literally, a sudden move against the state) is a clandestine, elite undertaking usually instigated or supported by military adventurists acting in behalf of…

LET’S GET THE usual “separation-of-church-and-state” argument out of the way first. Securing the Pope, whoever he may be, is a State responsibility and no one in his right mind should be arguing against it. No one should begrudge the Catholic faithful among the citizenry the opportunity to at least see the Pope in person either. If providing that opportunity requires declaring January 15, 16 and 19 holidays, then by all means should those dates be holidays. The point is that neither assuring the Pope’s safety nor providing Filipinos the chance to see him impinges on the Constitutional…

EBOLA Virus Disease (EVD), or Ebola hemorrhagic fever, which the World Health Organization (WHO) describes as “a severe, often fatal illness in humans” is not contagious until the infected person develops symptoms. But why take the unnecessary risk of infection anyway by socializing with the very people you’ve quarantined? And yet that’s precisely what Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gregorio Catapang and Department of Health (DOH) Acting Secretary Janette Garin did by visiting Caballo Island early this week. WHO Fact Sheet 103, dated September 2014, declares that…

SO keenly anticipated by much of the media, the “break” between Vice President Jejomar Binay and President Benigno Aquino III has not come to pass. On the contrary. Despite the attempts of the usual Binay opponents to downplay the subject (they didn’t talk about politics), the supposed awkwardness (it was merely cordial), and even the length of a meeting between Binay and Aquino (it was thirty minutes, not three hours) in the evening of October 14th, judging from what ensued afterwards, that meeting seems to have patched things up between the two. Besieged by charges of corruption and…

BECAUSE he thinks his current problems are at least partly the doing of some Aquino administration personalities, among them his putative rival in 2016, Manuel Roxas II, Vice President Jejomar Binay has criticized the administration of which he’s a part—in which he in fact occupies two critical posts, those of chair of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), and Presidential Adviser on Overseas Filipino Workers’ (OFW) Concerns. In one of those instances demonstrative of the perverse character of the political system, he’s part of the so called…

MARUGAME SEIMEN is a self-service dining styled Udon & Tempura Japanese resto that specializes in piping hot Sanuki Udon and freshly fried tempura. They opened their first shop in 2000 and is now the undisputed udon chain king in Japan. It is named after the city known for the Best Udon, in Kagawa Prefecture in Japan. It's called seimen because the noodles are freshly made in the store. Thanks to the Ben Chan group, Marugame Seimen will open its doors in Manila before the year ends. Here is why Marugame Seimen will create an Udon &…

Curry House CoCo Ichibanya holds the Guinness World Record for the largest curry restaurant chain in the world--with over 1,400 stores. The first store in Manila finally opened at Basement 1 of Estancia Mall, franchised by Hubert Young of UCC Philippines and Mitsuyado Sei-men fame. Here's a guide on how to enjoy your CoCo Ichibanya Curry experience in Manila... Coco Ichibanya Menu: Recommended Mix Menu | Meat Curry | Seafood Curry | Original + Vegetable Curry | Salad, Dessert & Drinks The menu allows you to customize your curry and provide options for vegetarian…

How can you make the Luxe Sunday Brunch at Spectrum more awesome? Just add some LEGO fun! I surprised the boys last Sunday with their favorite hotel buffet--themed after their favorite toy. :) Here's a photo essay of our Awesome Sunday Brunch experience and why you shouldn't miss it, especially since it's on its final run this March... You are greeted by a Lego replica of Raffles & Fairmont Makati. The kitchen is themed with Lego chef and Lego-inspired appliances. We love the hakaw! It's best if you order your own dimsum basket. …

The Philippines Tourism Stars are a batch of individuals recognized by the Department of Tourism (DOT), who have exemplified excellence and dedication in driving the Philippine tourism industry. “The Philippines tourism is undoubtedly the fastest growing industry in the country, taking on a significant role in our economy. We believe that we owe this tremendous growth to our people. Without them, our destinations would only be a mere landscape. It is our people that give beautiful destinations life and meaning. And the Tourism Star Program honours these individuals who truly make it more…

Ever since the Philippines lifted the ban on Japanese Beef last 2014, Manila has been enjoying a Japanese Wagyu craze of the available top variants--Kobe, Matsusaka, and Ohmi. Now, the strictest quality Wagyu can be added to that list--Saga. Have you ever wondered how A5 Grade 11 Japanese Wagyu would taste like cooked on stone grill? Take a look at our House of Wagyu Saga Prime A5 experience... HOUSE OF WAGYU2Ecom Building, Harbour Drive, Mall of Asia Complex, PasayTelephone: +632 553-8437Mobile: +63 917 834-1248Facebook: HOUSE of WAGYU Champagne Henriot Brut Souverain. Brilliant light…

We have been informed that Techbox Philippines, A gadget store, is offering their “Sweetheart Promo”in celebration for the Heart’s month. They are launching the Buy-1, Take-1 deal to its customers. FromFebruary 12 to February 28, those who buy an LG G2, LG P713, or an LG E425 at Techbox Philippines stores will get a similar handset for free. It’s a great deal having 50% of from your purchased phone. In addition aside from getting a second handset for free, customers will also receive a free SD Card with their purchase. Techbox stores participating in this promo include…

Today, Microsoft Lumia 435 and Lumia 532 have been announced by Microsoft, it is tagged to be the most affordable price of Lumia device. Price is not yet available but we could expect that it will be affordable. It will have Windows Phone 8.1. Here are Microsoft’s goal when making this new units. Switch effortlessly between voice and video calls with built-in Skype in tegration and a front-facing camera. Read, review, edit and share on the go with the full suite of Microsoft Office on Windows Phone preinstalled. Keep your photos, videos and Office documents safely backed up with 30…

Do you like watching Movie or TV series while on the Go? Well for me I love it, because I am always on the go. I do have meetings and sometimes I do have out of town business trips. There are times that I also miss watching my favourite TV series due to hectic schedule in the office and family. Good news, on this coming Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), Microsoft will be partnering with DSF to give consumers special treat for every TV purchase over 2500 AED will come with a Touchmate Windows tablet for and an ICFLIX 3-month subscription for free. For every tablet that will be bought…

The biggest trend in business in the past twenty years has been globalization, and this factor continues to influence the markets, but technology and connectivity are emerging as world game-changers. How does connectivity affect business on a global basis? Connected travel already monitors traffic and routes public transportation. “Smart” travel cards, used in some cities, allow residents to travel throughout the city or between cities on trains, busses, and mass-transit systems, even giving discounts to users. Connected governance is the trend toward offering more governmental services…

The Galaxy Note 4 was launch today with the Special edition Samsung Galaxy Note 4 edge. Samsung updated its phone with two new designs, including one smartphone with curved display. They have also introduced virtual-reality headset, called the Gear VR. They have also announced their partnership with Mont Blanc and Oculus. We still don’t know when will this mobile phone be available in Philippines and Saudi Arabia. Image Credit : galaxynote4update.com Here is the specifications of the Galaxy Note 4 Samsung Galaxy Note 4 specs: 5.7-inch WQHD Super AMOLED display, 2560×1440 @515ppi…

The National Association of Independent Travel Agencies – Philippines or NAITAS with strong membership of more than 1,000 members nationwide is all set for the biggest travel and trade show this year! The biggest and the largest travel association with seventeen chapters nationwide is putting… Read More Related posts: Travel Facilitators Market signs up media partners Travel Facilitators Market by TFM Asia Sets to Unfold PH Travel Tour Expo 2013 happening at the SMX Convention Center 13th Travel Tour Expo

The tourism board of Guam also known as the Guam Visitors Bureau was in Manila for the Travel Expo 2015. The local rep office invited us to have dinner with the team from Guam. They presented to us the direction of the tourism in their… Read More Related posts: Visit Bohol 2015 to kick off in Glorietta on December 8 Western Visayas Tourism Assembly in Bacolod slated next week SEAIR Buy 2 Take 10 Promo! A must visit PH historic island: Isla de Corregidor Filipinas

A high-end resort in Tagaytay awaits for you to enjoy the cold breeze of the city away from the toxic and stressful streets of Metro Manila. The resort is located in Brgy. Iruhin Central Calamba Road, Tagaytay, Cavite. The high-end resort is surrounded by more… Read More Related posts: Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort; Photo Diary 2 Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort; a photo diary – Part 1 Tagaytay Highlands: Feels Like You’re in a Foreign Land How to get to Sky Ranch Tagaytay

All set! The 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Festival is happening on February 12 to 15, 2015 in Clarkfield, Pampamga! The venue is at the Philippine Air Force ADAC Hangar. Earlier this year, a memorandum of agreement to hold the annual balloon fiesta was… Read More Related posts: Staging of the 19th International Hot Air Balloon Fest started 12th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Are you ready for the “Weekend of Everything that Flies”? PIHABF Official Statement about the 19th Hot Air Annual Fiesta

SURABAYA, 18TH JANUARY 2015 – AirAsia Indonesia wishes to update the latest development on search and recovery operations led by The National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS) Republic of Indonesia. The SAR operation continued this morning although high waves and strong currents still hampered the… Read More Related posts: AirAsia Indonesia Flight QZ8501 Update as of January 17 AirAsia to fly direct from KL to Kalibo (Boracay) Tune Hotels opens fifth branch in Indonesia AirAsia Zero P0 Base Fare Promo is up!

My EDSA 1 babies is a post from: A Filipina Mom Blogger My husband caressed my protruding belly and felt our baby move. His smile turned to a frown as he knitted his brows, ““We need to pack up and move to the mountains.” I stood up and responded, “No, we’re staying put. I know something good will happen. I just know it.” My stubborn refusal started a minor spat when he remarked about my naivete that a civil war will soon erupt because then President Marcos will make sure he will still rule the country. A few days after on February 22, 1986, my heart raced when…

Hack it big: Unconventional life hacks for life’s common dilemmas is a post from: A Filipina Mom Blogger by Lean Panganiban, as originally posted at Philippine Online Chronicles Sometimes, you need more than conventional wisdom and obvious advice to get yourself back on track. These productivity hacks might seem strange, but they can help not only to jumpstart your life, but make it big out there. You guys are open to pitch in. Leave tips you swear by in the comments section below. WHEN WORK IS BORING. #1: DO NOT QUIT YOUR JOB JUST YET. I’ve no idea how many internet stories you’ve read…

Journaling is a process of self-reflection. is a post from: A Filipina Mom Blogger by Ma. Rachel Yapchiongco as originally posted at the Journaling For The Soul, Philippine Online Chronicles. Never underestimate the power of blank pages and a pen. They can immortalize thoughts, preserve memories and create lasting impressions. Think of a journal as a window to your soul. You can write whatever you want. You can share your thoughts, ideas, secrets, feelings, worries, fears, dreams, and more. Journaling is a process of self-reflection. It lets you share a big part of yourself without worrying…

To love and to be loved by you, our child,…an honor and so blest. is a post from: A Filipina Mom Blogger It was sometime January 2004 as I was wheeled through the Operating room of the Philippine Heart Center for an angiogram procedure. Three doctors told me that my heart had blocked arteries and I will need an angioplasty. Two diagnostic tests revealed the necessity for an angioplasty. At that time, all I could think of was the expense, something like 500,000 pesos ($10,000). As I hovered between sleepy state and consciousness , I remember thinking that it was alright to die. I would…

Toys my children played is a post from: A Filipina Mom Blogger I never realized the value my children placed on their toys until Marielle interviewed me for her research paper a few years ago on “Toys and Games I played with” for her Psychology course. She said “Thank God mom for the girly and not so girly toys”. In this day of digital toys and gadgets, I believe parents should never forget that the best toys for children are ‘open-ended’. Such toys encourage children to play using imagination, creativity and problem-solving skills such as blocks –…

it was amazing, and dismaying, how meekly and quickly senator ralph recto stopped with the questions re the extent of american involvement in mamasapano. just when it was getting interesting. general napeñas was about to tell us about the drones. … Continue reading →

yes, we are thoroughly appalled by the president’s (mis)handling of mamasapano and distressed by his continuing silence. it’s as if he’s incognizant of the public outrage, or is he just disdainful of, and so refuses to dignify, the widespread sentiment … Continue reading →

By Katrina S.S. I AM not sold on the idea of asking the President to resign. Because he won’t. And no amount of pressure will make him do it. This is the same man whose government mishandled the preparations for … Continue reading →

feb 11 i caught US president barack obama on CNN explaining his admin’s draft resolution to the US congress for authority to use force against ISIL. OBAMA: If we had actionable intelligence about a gathering of ISIL leaders, and our partners … Continue reading →

watching house of reps hearing on mamasapano on cable tv, and rep neil tupas tries to do the senate better. asks napenas about marwan’s finger. napenas asks for executive session. tupas: i want you to answer that… i don’t think it involves … Continue reading →

Opening Remarks At the MacArthur and Laurel Perspectives of the War Years Muralla Ballroom, The Bayleaf Hotel Intramuros, Manila February 16, 2015 It pains me deeply not to be able to join you today; a personal invitation from Mrs. Laurel is something I always look forward to. Our families are bound by the strong … Continue reading »

Rogue | November 2014 The Master of Tropical Baroque by Manuel L. Quezon III Nick Joaquin beautifully captured the country’s political landscape, and created a literary benchmark that every writer aspires to attain. Nick Joaquin to me was sin and stories. The first due to an early memory of my father arriving home … Continue reading »

Rogue | October 2014 The Unbearable Burden of Being by Manuel L. Quezon III Since independence in 1946, we have nearly doubled the number of our provinces, and gone from 18.4 million people to 100 million today. The sheer volume of both people and government means you have more doing less for more. … Continue reading »

Rogue | September 2014 Showdown with the Supremes by Manuel L. Quezon III How the President Marcos’ dance with the justices led to the constitutionality of a dictatorship. A retired general once told me that the coded signal for the implementation of martial law was “happy birthday.” By and large, we’re familiar with the basic plan … Continue reading »

…[T]he Constitution is not, and should not be, an idol under strict taboos. It is not, and should not be, a strait-jacket for the growing and developing nation which it was made to serve. The Constitution itself outlines the procedure for its own amendment, and it thus expressly devoted to the principle that it is … Continue reading »

It is generally conceded that impeachment is more of a political than a legal process. However, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), supposedly the official organization of lawyers in the Philippines, has issued a statement raising an interesting legalistic claim regarding the impeachment of Chief Justice Renato Corona. The statement argues that while the impeachment process itself against Corona is legal, some of the grounds relied on, particularly those which question the opinions of the justices applying the Constitution in actual cases, constitute an assault on the judiciary…

To one looking at the broader picture of the travel ban against former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, sans the witting or unwitting shortcomings of the key characters from all sides, it may be reasonable to assume that the question of great commonsensical importance may inevitably boil down to: Who among these players is actually acting honorably, honestly and in fair play? The obtaining facts tell us that the adjudicatory phase of the criminal cases against Arroyo including electoral sabotage, plunder and other high crimes of graft and corruptions had been well approaching when she…

Impeachment is a political process mainly because party-mates will vote along party lines. This is the habiliment of democracy. Majority controls the business of the day, minority voice is heard for the record, but it does not carry the business for the day. We should not lose our equilibrium because some Senators have already prejudged Merci and therefore they should inhibit from sitting in the impeachment body. The process itself is political and therefore, it will be resolved in accordance with party agenda. Merci, from my recollection did not argue that politics is ruinous to public…

I am glad FV was back online. This was a good news, but the bad news is, one of FV regular contributors, the veteran journalist, Ding Gagelonia died last month. At Facebook, I have started to pass around the hat, but it has generated cold enthusiasm. I am doing it again in this blog and hoping that his loved ones may benefit from token appreciation of some of his friends in the blogsphere. Journalists in our time, live frugal life by necessity unless one belongs to “jukebox” breed of which you could feel that Ding was not. I have not personally met Ding. I only knew him through FV…

So it is now the time to bite the bullet until and unless some kind of anesthetic is found for the string of higher scots for our expressways and public transport modes. The Aquino administration surely knows these higher rates exact a political cost. It can, of course, be argued by P-Noy’s communications team that with 7 in 10 Filipinos support the long term goal of putting our lives in order, the adjustments simply cannot be put off. But while this point is conceded, the matter of cogently communicating the reason/s for the upticks cannot be neglected. Let’s cite another point – the…

I'm a female vocalist 28 years old been in the industry for quite a long time.. I can sing variety of songs from rock to RnB to pop to jazz, i have few regular gigs and events with my session musicians. I'm looking for dEvoted band members. No attitud...

Watch Jessica Soho this evening and look out for the segment on kinilaw or kilawin (a story in reaction to the dish demonstrated by Gaita Fores and Myrna Segismundo at Madrid Fusion a few weeks back) -- we helped with a couple of different versions that were shot in Cebu by the seashore and in the restaurant! :)

WASHINGTON - The Federal Aviation Administration is seeking ways to speed up the approval process for commercial drone operations, but its efforts have been hindered by its lack of authority to review multiple applications on a group basis, the FAA chief said on Tuesday.

MOSCOW - A Russian lawyer for Edward Snowden said on Tuesday the fugitive former U.S. spy agency contractor who leaked details of the government's mass surveillance programs was working with American and German lawyers to return home.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned the United States on Tuesday that it was negotiating a bad deal with Iran that paved the way to a "nuclear nightmare," drawing a rebuke from President Barack Obama and exposing the depth of a US-Israeli rift.

There are a lot ways to make money online. However, most of the available opportunities today require you to join a networking or multi-level marketing business – and unfortunately, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Income opportunities through the internet have come and gone, but there’s one that I know, which has continued to grow […]Note:This is just a preview. Read the full article at Ready To Be Rich by clicking this link: Learn How To Make Money Online with Blog Academy PhilippinesAttend a FREE Personal Finance SeminarLearn practical money management and…

Anyone who loves traveling will surely have New York in their bucket list – I know I do. And today, our brand partner Philippine Airlines, gives us five of the top places to see and visit, if ever you find yourself in The Big Apple. — The world is a big place. And each destination […]Note:This is just a preview. Read the full article at Ready To Be Rich by clicking this link: Top 5 Places To See and Visit in New YorkAttend a FREE Personal Finance SeminarLearn practical money management and investing strategies from the IMG Wealth Academy. Get more details here.

Angat Pilipinas Coalition for Financial Literacy is an SEC-registered, non-profit, non-stock financial literacy organization. Recently, they launched the very first Angat Pilipinas Financial Literacy Awards, which celebrates the financial institutions, NGOs and advocates for their work in helping Filipinos become more financially literate. The Angat Pilipinas Awards will give recognition to the following: Advocacy Group […]Note:This is just a preview. Read the full article at Ready To Be Rich by clicking this link: The First Angat Pilipinas Financial Literacy AwardsAttend a FREE…

If you were to choose, what should be your priority – buy a house, get a car, start a business, or build your stock investments? This was the concern of a young woman, who posted this question on a Facebook group a few days ago. When I saw this on my timeline, I decided to […]Note:This is just a preview. Read the full article at Ready To Be Rich by clicking this link: What Should Be Your Priority: House, Car, Business, or Stock Investments?Attend a FREE Personal Finance SeminarLearn practical money management and investing strategies from the IMG Wealth Academy. Get more details…

What is the most basic rule to follow if you want to become rich? I believe it’s to spend less than what you earn. The better version is: Spend less than what you earn and invest the difference. But we just want the basics… the most important rule of wealth building. Which, to state it […]Note:This is just a preview. Read the full article at Ready To Be Rich by clicking this link: The Rules of Wealth Never Changes and Here’s ProofAttend a FREE Personal Finance SeminarLearn practical money management and investing strategies from the IMG Wealth Academy. Get more details…

Now this is a moment we should all be proud of. Imagine our surprise when we found out that Cherry Mobile was going to be a part of the Mobile World Congress 2015, Barcelona. The big announcement came through their Facebook page. And reports are coming in that Cherry Mobile will be announcing two mobile phones running Windows 8.1. Unsurprisingly, some local blogs already have information as to what devices were going to be showcased. Its the Alpha Neon and the Alpha View. Unbox.ph has the specs and images of both, and they are well within mid-range. Cherry Mobile Alpha Neon partial specs:…

It finally arrived. After much anticipation, the Samsung Galaxy S6 (SGS6) was unveiled in the Mobile World Congress 2015 in Barcelona. And here’s what you need to know: It’s all about the looks Most of the things we know about it turned out to be true. The SGS6 is as beautiful as we could have hoped. And as attested by the praise of multiple news and blog posts, the Samsung’s flagship is as premium as it is elegant. Moving away from its plastic past, the SGS6 went with an anodized aluminum frame, with front and back glass panels made from Corning’s latest Gorilla Glass 4. And the…

As the Mobile World Congress draws near, the launch of the highly anticipated Samsung’s Galaxy S6 is fast approaching. Leaks and rumors of the flagship’s looks and specs are now abundant online. Design One of the more interesting leaks is an image that came from one of the forums in XDA Developers. Real or not, the image shows the two versions of the flagship side by side. The markings on the bottom bezels reveal that the devices appear to be prototypes. So these may not be the final designs we’ll see in the next couple of days. Image from XDA via Android Authority The image…

Is it me or is the word “octa” abused by phone manufacturers? Cherry Mobile has just announced that the Flare S3 Octa will go on sale starting February 28, 2015. The successor to the popular Flare series, the S3 Octa features a 1.4GHz octa-core processor and a very attractive Php4,499 price tag. Other specs include a 5 inch 720p HD screen, 1GB of RAM, 8GB of storage, a 13MP main camera and a 5MP front camera. There is no mention about battery size though, but it does come with a free 2,600 mAH power bank (which could mean bad things about its battery capacity). Last but not the…

Xian Lim Credit: ABS-CBN “I’m not here to promote Albay.” This is what Xian Lim, according to a Facebook post by Albay Governor Joey Salceda. The Star Magic talent was a guest during the recent Fiesta Tsinoy Albay. When Bicolanos learned about this issue, many of them requested that Lim be declared “persona non grata.” Albay Governor Joey Salceda wrote on his official Facebook page this Thursday. “Xian Lim says in my face (Atty Carol) while handing the coffee table book in front of many – ‘I’m not here to promote albay.’ If his road manager checks his…

The Philippines‘ Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued an advisory on Friday, February 13, 2015, warning the public about Emgoldex Philippines‘ “Pinoy Style Patak Patak.” According to the advisory, Facebook netizens are being invited to invest their money for a promise of huge profit / high returns where an investment of P1,000 will earn profits ranging from P5,000 to P10,000 or a placement of P35,000 will yield P180,000 to P360,000. SEC Advisory About Emgoldex On Its Official Website Source: sec.gov.ph According to the SEC advisory, Emgoldex Philippines…

Bidorhire logo Credit: Bidorhire.com With the increasing high demand for online freelancers, Bidorhire Limited launches its own online marketplace, Bidorhire.com. Through this site, online contractors (or employers) and different kinds of freelancers can easily negotiate for a certain project. These projects can be short term or long term. Among the current popular categories available include web design, logo design, SEO (Search Engine Optimization), sales and marketing; cloud computing, article writing, and many more. As the site grows, more categories are expected to be added. Besides…

Northeast Blizzard 2015 Credit: NWS Boston on Twitter The Northeast blizzard is expected to bring over two-feet deep snow in New York City by Monday, January 26, 2015. NYC Authorities warned that the blizzard could probably run for 35 hours. An estimated 6,500 flights were already cancelled due to bad weather. About 65 million people will be affected by the blizzard according to the National Weather Service. The blizzard reportedly covers a 250-mile stretch of the Northeast. NWS forecast said that the Northeast blizzard could set a new record for the amount of snowfall. The weather…

Tropical Storm Seniang is now over Negros Oriental and moving towards Panay Gulf, PAGASA’s Weather Bulletin No. 10 issued at 11am, Tuesday, December 30, 2014 said. According to the bulletin, Seniang‘s center was located at 75km southeast of Iloilo City as of 4am. It has maximum sustained winds of 65 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph. It is forecast to move west at 11 kph. Tropical Storm Seniang Satellite Image Source: DOST/PAGASAPublic Storm Warning Signals are as follows: Signal No. 2 Negros Occidental Negros Oriental Guimaras Southern Cebu Southern Antique…

As the latest installment of their Global Glamour collection, Mattel has released a Barbie doll inspired by the culture and family of its designer, Fil-Am Carlyle Nuera. Mutya Barbie, as listed on the Barbie Collection’s website, is pictured wearing a beautiful cream colored organza overdress inspired from the traditional Philippine terno and a long pink gown.

Only two weeks after serving up Filipino brunch at temporary restaurant (also known as “pop-up”) Rice and Shine in Los Angeles, chef AC Boral was explaining his dishes to a new audience, only this time it wasn’t comfort breakfast food.

Located in the heart of the East Village, Jeepney, opened by Nicole Ponseca, Enzo Lim, Tomas De Los Reyes, and Noel Cruz, achieved a spot on Time Out New York’s Love New York Awards for 2014, an award voted on by Time Out New York readers. A restaurant with a menu completely inspired by the Filipino cuisine, Jeepney has slowly worked itself into the food scene of the East Village through their various events: the annual Balut-eating contest and weekly ‘Kamayan Nights’ just to name a few. Tags food jeepney New York City NY

After more than three months and a heart-pounding two rounds of the Tournament, we're finally here: the Final Four of UAAP Men's and Women's Volleyball Season 77.Ateneo Lady Eagles, the only team with an outright finals berth and a thrice-to-beat advantage after sweeping the 14-game elimination round, will have to wait the winner of stepladder semifinal between De La Salle Lady Archers, NU Lady

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines College Entrance Test (PUPCET) 2015 exam results for incoming freshman for the First Semester of Academic Year 2015-2016 will be listed here once available online.PUP Communication Management Office stated that a total of 21,209 took the second batch of the PUPCET 2015 in Sta. Mesa, Manila on February 7. First batch of the entrance test held last

Photo Credit: Pinoy Big Brother Abs-Cbn Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) will be coming back for a sixth season.ABSC-CBN has released the first audition dates for "PBB Season 6" and "PBB Teen Edition 6," in a video announcement posted in the official social media accounts of Pinoy Big Brother.(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js =

The Professional Regulation Commission or the PRC released the February 2015 Physician Licensure Examination results. The official results were released on Wednesday, February 18, 2015.The examination was conducted by the PRC on February 8, 9, 15 and 16, 2015 in the cities of Manila and Cebu.A total of 594 out of 832 examinees passed the February 2015 Physician Board Exam, according to PRC (via

This is to complain about a flight attendant named Miss Qhan. Our plane was on a connecting flight from Zürich to Manila. First of all, this is our first time to travel with Oman Air. We always booked Singapore Airlines and Emirates whenever we go to the Philippines and we were always satisfied with these airlines, however, due to Oman Air’s three hour waiting time in Muscat on our connecting flight, we decided to try this airline. Well, what can I say? Let me start from the flight from Zürich. We had the last two seats of the economy class and we were happy since there was not much…

I wrote a post on how to invest in Philippine Stock Market for beginners and some of my readers asked me questions regarding their application requirements. I emailed COL Financial to get an official information (not just from people from around the web) and I just recently got a response. I will share below. 1.) I am a student / housewife. I do not have a TIN. How can I apply? You can go to the RDO having jurisdiction over your address and ask for BIR Form 1904. Fill it up and attach a photocopy of your birth certificate and an original Barangay Certification. Here are other guide in getting…

Most of us women have a lot of insecurities. We want to lose a bit more weight (or gain a bit more weight depending on the situation), want our skin to be clear and pimple-free, want to have that even skin tone, want to stay young forever, or at least delay and keep wrinkles at bay, etc. That is why the beauty and anti-aging industry is such a big business. They feed on our insecurieties and thereby getting big chunks of our money. However, insecurity is not at all bad. You can use it to better yourself. Of course there is a big difference between being insecure and lashing out on other…

If you are reading this post, then chances are, you are extremely interested in investing in the stock market and you would like to find a good strategy that works. If you do not yet know how to open an account to be able to invest in Philippine Stock Market, then you can find a Beginner’s guide here. So, why stock market? Investing in a stock market gives a lot of advantages for individuals. Here are some of them, 1.) Compound Interest. This is just the same as the interest that your credit card gives you, except that it works for you and not against you. Given time, a money that is…

I do not really like amusement parks. I mean, they are exciting and all that but I don’t like those scary rides where I feel like I might have a heart attack at any moment. However, for some people, the scarier the rides, the better the thrill. For these people, let me recommend the Heide Park. My husband had been raving about this park days long before we went to Germany to visit his family. I told him I will NEVER take any ride if it is dangerous (which means all rides, well, except those designed for little children I suppose). We went there early because there tend to be a lot of…